Campaign of the Month:
September 2013

Heroes Unchained

Scythan Axe

In contrast to Throalic dwarfs, who grew fond of swords a long time ago, many dwarfs outside of Throal preserved the Scythan Axe called the mareka. The mareka is a one-handed weapon featuring a single axehead. On the side opposite to the blade, the weapon is either flat or has a small spike or hook. The mareka shows the true pragmatism of the dwarfs of ancient Scytha, as the flat side can be used as a hammer, or the hook for climbing (the latter providing a +1 bonus to any Climbing Test where the hook or spike proves useable). The weapon is also referred to as “knee-crusher,” as it saw frequent use in the early wars that the Scythan dwarfs fought against larger foes such as trolls and ogres. The ancient dwarf blessing “May a shield be above your head, and may you strike straight” is more literal than it might first appear when it is applied to the mareka.